Blackburn Falls in Overtime Battle

CARLINVILLE, IL – The Blackburn College women's basketball team took MUW to overtime but came up just short in a 77–75 loss.

Key contributors for the Beavers included junior India Harris, senior Kailynn Kruep, and freshman Vickie McGee. Harris led the way with 18 points, five rebounds, and one steal, while Kruep and McGee each added 11 points. Junior Eiz Allende Quiñones controlled the paint, pulling down 13 rebounds.

The Beavers set the tone early with defensive pressure and aggressive rebounding. Blackburn jumped out to a 5–0 lead behind McGee, who scored the first five points of the game with a layup and a three-pointer. That early burst was fueled by strong guard defense, as steals by Allende Quiñones, McGee, and junior Kenadee Frey disrupted MUW's rhythm. Blackburn closed the first quarter on a strong run, highlighted by a late freshman Abby Borders three-pointer and inside finishes from Allende Quiñones, taking a 22–17 lead into the second quarter.

In the second period, Blackburn continued to answer every MUW push. Freshman Elexus Frey knocked down back-to-back three-pointers, while senior Becca Benoit converted at the free-throw line to keep Blackburn in front. Despite MUW briefly regaining the lead midway through the quarter, Blackburn responded late with baskets from Allende Quiñones and Harris, trimming the deficit to 34–31 at halftime.

The third quarter was defined by defensive toughness. Blackburn forced multiple turnovers and protected the rim with blocks from Kruep and senior Zoe Mitchell. Allende Quiñones was everywhere, recording steals, rebounds, and a key layup to keep the game within one possession. Harris provided a spark off the bench with timely finishes inside, helping Blackburn stay within striking distance at 51–45 heading into the fourth quarter.

Blackburn made its push in the final period. A senior Gaby Solis three-pointer, followed by baskets from Harris, Frey, and Kruep, erased MUW's lead and eventually gave Blackburn a 70–68 advantage in the final minute. After MUW tied it late, Blackburn had chances at the buzzer, but the game went to overtime tied at 70–70.

In overtime, Blackburn struck first with a clutch Kruep three-pointer, assisted by Allende Quiñones, giving the Beavers early momentum. Blackburn continued to battle on the glass and defensively, with Mitchell recording multiple blocks in extra time. Allende Quiñones added a critical layup to put Blackburn ahead 75–73 with just over two minutes remaining.

However, MUW capitalized at the free-throw line late and converted a final layup with 20 seconds remaining. Blackburn had opportunities in the closing moments, but shots did not fall, and MUW escaped with the 77–75 overtime win.

The Blackburn women's basketball team will travel to Louisville, Kentucky, to face the Golden Eagles of Spalding University on Wednesday afternoon.